Connector vs. Luck: How Relationships Create Opportunity

After being laid off, Michelle Tillis Lederman landed a new job in just three days, thanks to her mindset of intentional relationship-building, not luck. That experience inspired her to create the “Connector’s Advantage,” a framework for building authentic connections that drive faster and better results. In this episode, Michelle reveals how organizations struggling with team building can foster genuine human connection, especially in remote or hybrid workplaces. She also breaks down the seven mindsets of “connectors” alongside practical networking strategies that really pay off.

In this episode, Hala and Michelle will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:00) Why Connection Is the New Superpower

(06:31) How to Evolve From Networker to Super Connector

(11:15) How Openness Builds Trust and Connection

(20:44) Emotional Intelligence as a Core Leadership Skill

(24:25) The Power of Vision and Intentional Connection

(30:24) How to Ask for What You Want

(44:26) Networking Tactics to Add Real Value

(48:37) Staying Connected in a Hybrid Workplace

Michelle Tillis Lederman is a nationally recognized expert in workplace communication, networking, and leadership. She is a keynote speaker, author, corporate trainer, and the CEO and founder of Executive Essentials, a company that provides customized communication and leadership programs. Her book, The Connector’s Advantage, teaches how building strong relationships leads to faster, easier, and better results in both business and life.

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Resources Mentioned:

Michelle’s Book, The Connector’s Advantage: bit.ly/ConnectAdvantag 

Michelle’s Book, The 11 Laws of Likability: bit.ly/LawsofLikability 

Michelle’s Website: michelletillislederman.com

Michelle’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/communicationexpertspeaker 

Michelle’s Instagram: instagram.com/mtlederman 

Michelle’s YouTube: youtube.com/user/michellelederman 

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YAP E194 with Michelle Lederman: youngandprofiting.co/GrowUrNetwork 

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Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new 

Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, Goal Setting, Time Management, Problem Solving, Decision Making, Leadership Skills, Strategic Planning